Schwarzenegger told wife Maria Shriver about the child earlier this year, after which she moved out of their Brentwood mansion.

"After leaving the governor's office I told my wife about this event, which occurred over a decade ago," Schwarzenegger said in a statement. "I understand and deserve the feelings of anger and disappointment among my friends and family. There are no excuses and I take full responsibility for the hurt I have caused. I have apologized to Maria, my children and my family. I am truly sorry."

The Times said it will not publish the name of the former staffer, nor the name of her child. According to a source, Schwarzenegger "took financial responsibility for the child from the start and continued to provide support."

In a joint statement released last week, Schwarzenegger and Shriver announced that they were separating after 25 years of marriage.